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As summer fades and the crisp, cool air of fall sets in, the Oregon Coast offers an exciting opportunity for nature lovers: foraging. September marks the beginning of one of the best times to explore the coast’s rich natural bounty. From wild mushrooms to coastal plants and late-season berries, the Oregon Coast—and Newport, in particular—offers foraging opportunities that appeal to both seasoned foragers and curious beginners alike. Safety First Always be cautious when consuming foraged foods. If you are unsure about the safety of a plant or mushroom, do not eat it.  Avoid foraging in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides, near dog parks, or along busy roadways. Also, avoid foraging plants that appear unhealthy. Some wild plants and mushrooms can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. If in doubt, consult a local expert or use a foraging guide. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wild edibles. The Bounty of the Coast Foraging on the Oregon Coast is a rewarding experience because of its diverse coastal ecosystem. With temperate rainforests, sandy beaches, and tidal zones, the area is home to a variety of edible treasures. Fall is the perfect time to explore this abundance as wild mushrooms, berries, and coastal plants thrive in the cooler, damper weather. Wild Mushrooms Fall is prime mushroom season, and September is when the magic starts. In the Newport area, you can find a variety of wild mushrooms, including the highly sought-after chanterelles. These golden mushrooms grow in moist, wooded areas and are a favorite among foragers for their distinctive flavor and versatility in cooking. Other species such as lobster mushrooms, hedgehog mushrooms, and porcini may also be found in forested areas near Newport. Where to Forage In and around the coastal forests near Newport, such as the Siuslaw National Forest and nearby state parks, you can find a wealth of mushrooms. Make sure to forage responsibly, avoid private lands, and be sure you can positively identify any mushrooms before consuming them. A great local resource for identifying mushrooms is the Oregon Mycological Society  ( https://www.wildmushrooms.org  ). Coastal Edible Plants The Oregon Coast is also home to several edible coastal plants. Sea beans (also known as glasswort), wild fennel, and even some types of edible seaweed can be foraged along the shoreline. Sea beans thrive in salt marshes and tidal areas, while wild fennel can often be found growing along coastal paths. These plants are perfect for adding a coastal flavor to your meals and are surprisingly abundant. Where to Forage Head to the shoreline near Yaquina Bay or South Beach to look for edible seaweed and sea beans. Always be mindful of protected areas and ensure that foraging is permitted where you explore. The Oregon State Parks  website ( https://stateparks.oregon.gov  ) is a helpful resource for rules on foraging within state parks. Berries If you missed the peak summer berry season, September still offers late-season options, including blackberries and huckleberries. While many berry patches may be past their prime by this time, foragers can still find plenty of ripe berries lingering on bushes, especially in shaded areas or coastal forests where the cooler temperatures extend their growing season. Where to Forage The forests and trails around Newport are often filled with blackberry and huckleberry bushes. Try the trails at Beaver Creek State Natural Area  or along the forested areas around Yaquina Head. Foraging Tips and Cautions Identification is Key:  When foraging, it’s essential to correctly identify what you're collecting, especially with mushrooms and unfamiliar plants. Bring a field guide or use an app like iNaturalist ( https://www.inaturalist.org/  ) to help identify species. Forage Sustainably:  Only take what you need and be sure to leave some behind to maintain the natural ecosystem. Permits and Guidelines:  Foraging in state parks or on public lands often requires a permit. Check with local ranger stations or visit the Oregon Department of Forestry  website ( https://www.oregon.gov/odf/  ) for information on obtaining permits. Safety First:  Always be cautious when consuming foraged foods. If you are unsure about the safety of a plant or mushroom, do not eat it.  Avoid foraging in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides, near dog parks, or along busy roadways. Also avoid foraging plants that appear unhealthy. Some wild plants and mushrooms can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. If in doubt, consult a local expert or use a reliable foraging guide. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wild edibles. More Safety Considerations Foraging can be a fun and educational activity, but always ensure safety comes first. Wear proper clothing, especially if trekking into forested or overgrown areas, and be aware of the local wildlife. If you are new to foraging, it may be helpful to join a foraging group or take a guided foraging tour to learn from experts. In Newport, the Oregon Coast Community College  offers courses and workshops related to sustainable living and foraging, which can be a great way to learn more about the local ecosystem. Newport, Oregon, is a haven for coastal activities and scenic beauty as well as a treasure trove for foragers. September offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural offerings of the area, from mushrooms and berries to coastal plants. Whether you're a beginner looking to try your hand at foraging or a seasoned pro, Newport's diverse ecosystem provides the perfect backdrop for this rewarding activity. Be sure to check local regulations, forage responsibly, and enjoy the fresh flavors of the Oregon Coast this fall! For more information and resources, visit: Oregon Mycological Society Oregon State Parks Oregon Department of Forestry Fin and Forage : in-depth guides on foraging for wild foods along the Oregon coast and in forests, with a focus on seaweed, mushrooms, and shellfish. finandforage.com Eat the Planet : lists various foraging tours, walks, and classes available throughout Oregon. Wild Food Adventures : provides classes and multi-day intensives centered around foraging for edible wild plants, sea vegetables, and shellfish in Northwestern Oregon. That Oregon Life : seasonal tips and guidance on foraging wild mushrooms, berries, and other plants in Oregon.

With a stay at La Quinta® by Wyndham Newport, you can experience all the beauty this coastal town has to offer. We provide comfortable accommodations right off US-101, making it easy to reach Nye Beach and the Newport Historic Bayfront. You'll also be just a few minutes from the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium. At our hotel, enjoy excellent amenities including an indoor pool and hot tub, free WiFi and breakfast, and a fitness center. If you need to get work done, we also offer a convenient business center. (La Quinta website)

Old-school seafood shack supplying ocean-sourced fare, from live & steamed crabs to fish & chips.

Discover Newport on the Oregon Coast. Visitors and locals alike enjoy numerous year-round outdoor activities, entertaining attractions, restaurants and unique shopping opportunities. Whether you're on vacation, a local, or passing through, there are so many things to do in Newport! Home: Photo Gallery Find Yourself in Newport, Oregon! We’ve even created a few sample itineraries to help you experience Newport like a local. From the must-try seafood stops and hidden beach paths to the family-friendly favorites you’ll talk about long after you’re home. Download Itinerary – English Descargar itinerario – Español Seafood Like Nowhere Else You can’t come to Newport without tasting the coast. It’s in the air and on your plate. From dockside oyster shacks and casual fish-and-chips joints to elegant ocean-view restaurants, our Oregon coastal town is overflowing with flavor. Watch the boats come in, meet the people behind the catch, and taste the difference that fresh, local, and sustainable makes. Whether you’re a die-hard crab-leg lover interested in the Dungeness Crab Trail or just here for a steaming bowl of chowder by the water, Newport’s seafood scene is reason enough to plan a trip. Come Eat with Us Clearwater Restaurant See the Sea Spend a day exploring tidepools, stroll along windswept beaches, or dive into discovery at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, where playful sea otters and graceful jellyfish remind us how alive the sea really is. Beaches Attractions Tides Events in Newport Each February, the Seafood & Wine Festival draws food lovers from across the Northwest, while summer brings concerts, outdoor celebrations, and theater at the Performing Arts Center. Even the holidays shine brighter here, with festive coastal events and cozy seasonal traditions. There’s always a reason to plan your next trip to Newport, Oregon. See Upcoming Events THE DISCOVER NEWPORT BLOG Read More on the Discover Newport Blog ABOUT NEWPORT OREGON Newport is located on Oregon’s central coast. Visitors and locals alike enjoy numerous year-round outdoor activities, entertaining attractions, restaurants, and unique shopping opportunities. READ MORE Experiences @NewportOregon Load More... SUBSCRIBE FOR NEWS AND UPDATES

Media & Press Media Contact We are here to help you tell Newport’s story. For interviews, imagery, story assistance, or press trip inquiries, please reach out: EMAIL (Best contact for all PR and advertisement inquiry) connect@discovernewport.com SOCIAL MEDIA PHONE (For marketing resource inquiry) (971) 373 - 7117 Discover Newport exists to inspire visitation, support our local tourism economy, and highlight the people, places, and experiences that define life on Oregon’s central coast. We serve as the official destination marketing for the City of Newport and are funded by a portion of the transient lodging tax in Newport paid by overnight visitors. We promote tourism, support local businesses, and steward the community’s long-term economic vitality. What We Do: Develop and manage destination marketing campaigns across digital, print, broadcast, and social media. Provide media, journalists, and travel professionals with story ideas, imagery, itineraries, and local expertise. Partner with local businesses, attractions, and event organizers to strengthen and promote our tourism economy. Get Your Guide to Newport See all that Newport has to offer! The visitor guide including a curated itinerary, scavenger hunt, and more. Get your free Newport guide Are you the owner of a local business in Newport? Use this form to be featured on Discover Newport

Discover Newport on the Oregon Coast. Visitors and locals alike enjoy numerous year-round outdoor activities, entertaining attractions, restaurants and unique shopping opportunities. Flip Through our Travel Guide Explore the visitor guide including a curated itinerary, scavenger hunt, and more! Get Your Guide to Newport Select your format and fill out this form to get a free guide to Newport sent to you! Digital Download Physical Copy *By submitting this form, you agree to receive communication from us. Why Choose Newport Newport is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal towns for a reason. Here you'll find: Miles of open coastline to explore An inclusive and accessible surf culture Two historic lighthouses to visit Oregon’s most loved aquarium Mountain biking trails Tidepools, marine life and family-friendly attractions Easy access to outdoor adventures in every direction A walkable bayfront packed with dining, shops, and Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet. You could talk about visiting Newport someday. Or you could book your stay on Expedia now!